Are these any good? - OnePlus Buds

The video opens with an unboxing and quick first impressions of the OnePlus Buds, noting they are truly wireless but not active noise canceling, drawing quick comparisons to Google Pixel Buds and AirPods Pro. The host emphasizes a simple, familiar design, pointing out that the buds resemble the Pixel Buds and that the case is a comfortable, not overly large size. He mentions the lack of internal LEDs for earbud or case charging status, and comments on the unopened packaging and the inside color accents that feature OnePlus branding. The discussion then shifts to pairing behavior, explaining two different setup experiences depending on whether you are using a OnePlus device or a generic Android device, and warns about how renaming the buds after pairing can prevent confusion when re-selling or handing them down. He critiques the control scheme, highlighting that the buds only support double tap for actions and can be customized to different tasks, but noting limitations like the absence of a dedicated tap for certain functions, and the lack of a tap-to-pause or volume control in the initial setup, which leads to frustration and exclamations about the design choices. In the sound evaluation, the host tests the bass, highs, and overall balance, finding the buds to be modest performers for the price point, with brightness in the treble that can fatigue on long listening sessions. He compares them to higher-priced competitors and acknowledges that, at around 80 dollars, they offer reasonable value, while conceding that they do not reach premium airpod-like levels of sound fidelity. Battery life and charging claims are examined in detail, including the 430 mAh case, 35 mAh per bud, and claimed 30 hours total playback, with a nuanced explanation of the 10-minute quick-charge spec and how power flows from the wall to the case versus to the buds. The host notes IPX4 water resistance, non-dust resistance, and the presence of three microphones per earbud, plus a basic companion app with limited features like finding the device and adjustable settings for HD audio and calls. He acknowledges that Dolby Atmos support is only available on newer OnePlus devices after a future update, and he references a sponsor moment before concluding with a pragmatic verdict: the OnePlus Buds are acceptable value for their price, but not an exciting or standout choice, especially when compared to Apple or Google’s higher-end options or when looking for premium audio performance. The video ends with a light goodbye and a prompt to watch related reviews for Pixel Buds and other audio gadgets, reinforcing that the Buds serve as a budget-friendly, visually appealing option with a mixed usability story and modest sound quality.

Topics · technology · audio · consumer_electronics · reviews